Repcolite Home Improvement Show

On Today's EpisodeRepairing/Replacing Interior Doors [00:00 - 13:54]With only 1 shopping day left until Father's Day 2022...Getting Over Color Fear, Part 1 [13:54 - 19:00]Are you handy? When it comes to projects...REPCOLITE REWIND: The Invention of the Roller Cover [19:00 - 28:38]Curb appeal is important all the time...Getting Over Color Fear, Part 2 [28:38 - 51:31]Are you handy? When it comes to projects...The History of the Electric Drill [51:31 - 105:29]Are you handy? When it comes to projects...

On Today's EpisodeA Little Recanting About Hoses [00:00 - 06:24]A few weeks ago, Dan A. gave a pretty glowing review for a garden hose that he had TRIED but had not yet purchased. We promised that when he owned one of these Flexilla Hybrid Polymer hoses, we'd report back and let you know if it was as good as he expected it to be.Turns out, it's not! It's a good hose, but not for the purposes Dan needed it for. Now, he's spent the last few weeks purchasing and testing out all kinds of different hoses and he's got some recommendations.Kids' Rooms Matter [06:24 - 18:59]What was your room like when you were growing up? Do you remember it? Did it have a positive impact on you? A negative impact? Or no impact at all?In this segment, Hailey and Dan have a conversation about the importance of letting kids create their own spaces. As well as a conversation about how important it is to temper what the kids want to create so that it's not literally insane. Do I Have Hardwood Floors? [18:59 - 30:00]Before we get to the p

On Today's EpisodeIt's the Fourth of July weekend and we're excited to delve into our crates of radio goodness and bring to light some 4th of July gems from the past! The Story of Old Glory [00:00 - 09:25]What better way to start the 4th of July Extravaganza than a look at the history behind Old Glory?Flag Etiquette 101 [09:25 - 18:56]Many of us are flying the Stars and Stripes today . . . let's make sure we're doing it in a respectful manner! (I'm looking at you . . . flag-draped trucks).RepcoLite Rewind: Where's Your Phone? [18:56 - 29:18]Scott Hudgens, Manager of the RepcoLite store in Birmingham joins us to talk about easy-to-build yard games guaranteed to get your family off their phones!SCOTT'S INSTRUCTIONS for CORNHOLE BOARDSWhen learning how to make cornhole boards, you'll find that the platform is actually one of the easier parts to build. Start with building the frame, then add the top of the board.STEP ONE: THE FRAMEThe proper dimensions for a cornhole board are 4' x 2'. The frame of your cornhole

On Today's EpisodeThe Right Tools [00:00 - 04:45]Projects naturally go better when you use the right tools. What Do I Need for a Garage Floor Makeover? [04:45 - 32:29]Painting garage floors is popular for a couple reasons: First, it can turn a garage from an ugly storage area to a more finished space. And, secondly, a sealed surface is much easier to keep clean.However, it is one of the most difficult and demanding surfaces to paint and has to hold up to vehicle traffic, water and chemical attack, surface contamination from oil and other vehicle fluids, and the variable nature of concrete. PREPARATIONMOISTURE TESTNewer homes will have a vapor barrier installed beneath the concrete floor, older homes probably don't. If you're in an older home, the amount of water vapor that passes through concrete would probably surprise you. This moisture creates a challenge for adhesion of paint. To determine if your floor is an ideal candidate for a garage floor makeover, perform this simple moisture test: Use duct tape to

On Today's EpisodeBug Spray vs. Ticks Review [00:00 - 14:22]The ticks are SO bad right now where Dan H. likes to go walking that he's considering just getting a virtual reality headset so he can enjoy the outdoors that way. However, he knows that's not a good solution, so he's tested 5 Common Insect Repellents to determine which one is the best against ticks.The Five Tested Insect Repellents:OFF! Sportsmen Deep Woods--AerosolOFF! Deep Woods Dry--AerosolOFF! Family Care--Smooth and Dry AerosolOFF! Picaridin Sportsmen--Pump SprayMaggie's Farm Natural Insect Repellent--AerosolThe Ratings:FIFTH PLACE: Maggie's Farm Natural Insect RepellentPROSSmelled greatall natural ingredientsCONSDidn't stop ticksHeavy oil feel (grass clippings and other assorted pieces of nature stuck to Hannah--the test subject--for the entire length of the time outside. Not a huge deal, but she DID crab about it. A lot.)FOURTH PLACE: OFF! Sportsmen Deep Woods AerosolPROSRepelled ticks wellCONSOily feel, though not as oily as the all-natural

On Today's EpisodeBuilding Your Own Eden [00:00 - 18:58]We are in the studio with Scott Vanderberg and Chris Harkema from Vanderwall Brothers talking about outdoor spaces.Your backyard can be so much more than it is! Vanderwall Brothers can help you create a perfect vision for any budget.DETAILS19156 174th Ave - Spring Lake, MI616-842-4500Deck Cleaning: A Quick Look [18:58 - 26:32]Many decks throughout Michigan are looking pretty rough. If your deck isn't exactly the haven you'd like it to be, you can fix that! And it's not a tough project.Benjamin Moore Deck Cleaners we discussed:RESTOREBRIGHTENREMOVECLEANOnFloor Machine Rental Contact Info:Peter Ogle (petero@repcolite.com)5 Mistakes When Choosing Front Door Colors [26:33 - 50:02]Painting a front door is a quick and easy project with HUGE curb appeal. Yet, there are some mistakes people commonly make along the way . . . .

On Today's EpisodeFlex Tape to the Rescue? [00:00 - 07:12]After finding some damaged hoses, Dan prepared to do the repairs. One of his kids spoke up and recommended Flex Tape as the solution. The commercials are all over the place and they show Flex Tape solving problems in a miraculous fashion. But did it work in Dan's situation?Front Door Masterclass [07:12 - 30:24]Scott Hudgens, Manager of the Birmingham RepcoLite, is hosting a "Paint Your Front Door" Clinic in his store on Saturday, June 17. We sit down with him to discuss what the clinic looks like and to cover the info he'll be covering! Painting a front door is THE premier "boost-your-curb-appeal" project. If you want to make an impact and do it quickly and for very little expense, painting your front door is the answer!You Can't Do That: Recreational Fires [30:24 - 39:09]When it comes to recreational fires in the city, there are a few things you need to know....

On Today's EpisodeWith Memorial Day weekend here, we wanted to spend a little time focusing on what the day is about, so the last half of the show is dedicated to the day and the men and women who've given their lives in the service of their country. Vinyl vs. Wood Fencing [00:00 - 07:30]If you're on the fence when it comes to fencing materials, here's some information that may help you decide which one is right for you!Hello New Products! [07:30 - 18:37]Having new products to offer is always fun. Knowing that some of these products are going to offer solutions for tough situations is even better. All Gave Some, Some Gave All [18:57 - 33:03]We sit down with U.S. Navy Chaplain, Retired, Beth Stallinga to talk about Memorial Day from the perspective of someone who's spent her career in service to her country. Don't miss this interview!The First Decoration Day [33:03 - 39:12]Usually, we equate the year 1868 with the beginnings of Memorial Day. But recent (1990's) historical evidence suggests that there was anoth

On Today's EpisodeA Baby Announcement [00:00 - 05:38]Long-time co-host of the show, Hailey, had her baby! We share some info and do a little reminiscing...How Michigan's New VOC Rules Will Impact All of Us [05:38 - 33:28]New regulations regarding VOCs in paint and coatings went into effect in April in Michigan. And while it may seem like it may not impact you . . . chances are, everyone will feel it a little.Gone are oil-based deck products, polyurethanes, interior and exterior stains, and more. What does that mean? Are the waterbased alternatives as good? Also, if you (like so many people do) rely on oil-based products to get the job done, you'll be eager to hear that RepcoLite is actually still allowed to produce all of these oil-based, go-to, traditional products for 5 more years. So if you need them, we've got something that will work for you. We talk about all of that and much more in this segment!The Perfect Hose [33:29 - 38:58]With only a little time left in the show for the week, we opted to discuss h

On Today's EpisodeThis week, our show was pre-empted in the West Michigan market, so we decided to air a "Best Of" episode featuring some of our favorite segments.The (Tasty) History of Tulips [00:00 - 09:30]In honor of the end of Tulip Time 2023, we talk about the surprising (and surprisingly "tasty") history of tulips.Touch-Up Master Class [09:31 - 18:59]Ever touched up some scuffs on your wall only to have less than perfect results? We've got answers!Ladder Folklore [19:00 - 30:40]Ladders are common tools around the home. They're crazy old . . . and with all that use over all those years, there are bound to be some interesting stories that have arisen through the ages. We discuss some of our favorite (and the funniest) ladder-related history and folklore.Floor Painting [30:41 - 39:15]Painting a floor can really infuse a room with energy and interest. If you're thinking about this kind of project, check out this segment. We've got the info you need to get great results.

On Today's EpisodeHow to Remove Moss from Your Roof [00:00 - 15:32]FORMULA I USED:1 Pound Oxygenated Bleach2 Gallons of WaterTHIS IS FOR DIY Formulas! If you purchased a roof cleaner, follow label instructionsFIRST: RINSE PLANTS AROUND BASE OF HOUSESECOND: RINSE THE ROOF WITH LOW PRESSUREIF You spray from the ground, be cautious NOT to spray up under the shingles.May be better to get on the roof and spray at a downward angleBe careful–it’s slipperyALSO: Be careful with a hose on the roofDon’t damage your shinglesThis alone may be reason to call someone else to do it….THIRD: IF DEALING WITH HEAVY MOSS, SWEEP LIGHTLYUse a soft-bristled brushScrub lightly from top downDon’t damage shinglesRemove what you can of the moss before spraying on your cleanerMost of my moss wouldn’t come off at that pointFOURTH: APPLY YOUR CLEANING SOLUTION WITH A GARDEN SPRAYERAllow to stay for 15 - 20 minutesRinse thoroughlyAGAIN: LOW PRESSUREAnd spraying from the top downIF POSSIBLE don't do this from the groundDon’t push water up un

On Today's EpisodeJust Say No to One Coat! [00:00 - 6:25]We are people, too! We know how tempting it is try to squeak by with one coat of paint. Here are 5 quick reasons why you shouldn't do that! 1) ONE COAT MIGHT NOT LOOK AS GOOD AS YOU THINK!Lighting can affect what we seeWet hide versus Dry hide – not the same things2) 2 COATS GIVE BETTER LONG TERM RESULTSBetter Color Representation → Better LookBetter Durability, washability, etc.3) IT'S MORE CONVENIENT TO DO IT NOW . . . Furniture’s movedDrop cloths are downTape is appliedYour tools are out!Putting everything away now and finding you need a second coat just turned that one project into two projects!4) SECOND COATS ARE WAY FASTERYou’re not cutting in againYou’re not doing all the prepYou’re just rolling that surface!5) PLANNING ON A SECOND COAT CAN PREVENT YOU FROM MAKING A HUGE MISTAKE!When people PLAN on only doing one coatThey tend to apply paint far too heavily!Runs, sags, and overall mess usually followPlanning on two coats right from the start

On Today's EpisodeGetting Unstuck [00:00 - 7:08]Life's busy and projects and maintenance and all kinds of other jobs can get pushed to the side. And often, when that happens, there's a bit of guilt that starts to build. We should be wrapping these things up. And if we're not, what does that say about us?Well, I'm in the middle of a long slog through this and in my efforts to figure out what I might need to do to get myself moving again, I think I stumbled on some obvious info that might be helpful to more people than just me.So, if you're feeling overwhelmed and a little guilty about projects at home, maybe this will help a little.CUT YOURSELF SOME SLACKIt sounds touchy-feely, but being down on yourself--being negative--isn't productive. Negativity doesn't produce more results or better results. It really just slows the process down. So it's important to ease up on yourself a little bit. You're not a lazy homeowner, you're just busy. Maintaining a home is a marathon and it's OK to take your time as you move t

On Today's EpisodeSurge Protectors Vs. Power Strips [00:00 - 06:57]With some recent lightning storms, we've heard a couple horror stories where people lost a lot of the electronic devices in their home after a power surge. There's a simple, inexpensive solution that most of us know about . . . but not all of us use: surge protectors. And before you tune out because you think you've got a couple surge protectors on your devices, make sure that what you're using isn't just a power strip. They look like surge protectors, but don't do a whole lot when it comes to protecting your stuff! Here are a couple of great articles that spell it out clearly:Surge Protector Vs. Power Strip Vs. UPSWhat's the Difference Between a Power Strip and Surge Protector?Worm Farming [06:58 - 18:55]Hailey's still on the "composting train" and now she's digging into worm farming. It's a fun project that could help you turn all your food scraps into valuable compost--black gold! Worm Farming InstructionsElement Guard from Benjamin Moore

On Today's EpisodeSpring Cleaning Around the World [00:00 - 11:49]Spring cleaning reaches back to Biblical times and beyond... We explore how the world approaches everyone's favorite Spring pasttime.20 Minutes to Clean [11:50 - 18:59]We love the idea of a clean house, but getting started can be tough. We've got a trick that will get you moving. Best of all? It's painless.Can I Paint THAT??? [19:00 - 32:59]We see it all the time on TV and the web: people painting EVERYTHING. Tile floors, backsplashes, countertops, and even dishwashers. We see that and wonder: can I do that?? The bigger question is: should you?Check in with Hailey [33:00 - 39:10]Hailey's WAY pregnant and we get an update on how things are going...

On Today's EpisodeApril Fool's Day History [00:00 - 08:01]It's April Fool's Day and that means people all over the place are going to be pranking friends or getting pranked. But where does the day come from in the first place? The history is a little surprising!Best Hoaxes Through the Years [08:02 - 18:59]In digging into the history of April Fool's Day, we ran into a number of amazing hoaxes sprung on the unsuspecting masses throughout the years. Here are some of our favorites....100 Best April Fool's Day Hoaxes of All TimeIs Raspberry Blush Still Terrible? [19:00 - 32:02]That's a bit harsh! We don't think Benjamin Moore's Raspberry Blush is a terrible color . . . but we DO know that the color of the year for 2023 is pushing the boundary. Today we talk about how the bold colors of 2023 can be used in our homes.If It's Worth Doing, It's Worth Doing Poorly [32:03 - 39:00]We're used to hearing the phrase: "If it's worth doing, it's worth doing well." But today, we're putting a spin on it.

On Today's EpisodeThe Review Review [00:00 - 11:36]We revisit a few of our previous reviews and recommendations to see if they stood the test of time. Lomi Countertop ComposterYou can check out our original segment on Lomi down below. But the long and short of it is . . . after nearly a year of ownership, the luster has worn off a bit! The Lomi unit is great and does exactly what it's supposed to do . . . it's just that Hailey doesn't find herself using it for a variety of reasons. LOMI Countertop Composter Original ReviewGOVEE Humidifier and HygrometerAnother product we initially loved was the GOVEE Humidifier and Bluetooth Hygrometer. In this case, after a winter of use, Dan still LOVES it. There are a lot of different sizes available, but for the small room Dan needed to humidify, this has worked flawlessly. The Hygrometer works with the Humidifier to keep the room at a constant relative humidity of about 48-50%. And when the water is low . . . the GOVEE unit sends an alert through a phone app. Check out

On Today's EpisodeCooking with Cast Iron [00:00 - 13:29]Cast Iron is old school, heavy, and a traditional weapon against burglars . . . but is it still serious cookware? Absolutely . . . it's the Serious-est.Pros and Cons of Cast Iron CookwareColor Sample Sale [13:30 - 19:00]Benjamin Moore Color Samples are the ideal way to make sure you've chosen the right color. The rest of this month, they're 50% off!How to Find the Right Contractor Everytime! [19:01 - 32:18]Hiring the right contractor is all about starting at the right time and looking for some signs as you get your quotes. We'll tell you everything you need to know!Paint Finishes--What Goes Where? [19:02 - 39:28]Paint finishes can be confusing. We'll break it down and . . . believe it or not . . . make it entertaining!

On Today's EpisodeIt's our 300th Episode and we're kicking back and celebrating! 300 Episodes [00:00 - 07:25]We make a correction to our Chicken Conversation from last week and talk about the fun we've had making 300 episodes!Extension Cords [07:26 - 18:59]Getting the right extension cord is a big deal! In this segment, we talk about everything you need to know to make the right choice.Powering 15 amp tools for 25 feet? Go with a 14 gauge cordPowering 15 amp tools for 50 feet? Go with a 12 gauge cordPowering 15 amp tools for 100 feet? Go with a 10 gauge cordSome Resources:Determining the Right Extension CordChoosing the Correct Extension CordSelecting the Right Extension Cord for Your Power ToolsExtension Cord ChartWhat Size Extension Cord Do I Need?Extension Cord Buyer GuideRepcoLite Rewind: Painting Your Cabinets [19:00 - 29:45]This segment for our Detroit listeners comes from Episode 220.Faking It With Paint [29:46 - 42:39]Paint can cover your walls with color . . . but you can do a lot of other creative t

On Today's EpisodeInflation Chickens [00:00 - 11:03]With rising egg prices, there may be just ONE reasonable way to proceed: raising our own chickens. Inflation Chickens are a real thing and we're wondering whether or not it makes sense!Nurseries (Again) [11:04 - 26:52]We talked about some nursery struggles last week. This week, we want to talk about the best paint choices if you're painting while pregnant. And, we want to spend some time talking about how to pull a nursery together so you don't have to re-do the entire thing in just a couple years when your new baby is a toddler. RepcoLite Rewind for Detroit: Perfect Project Planning [26:53 - 38:54]We go back to an old segment from April of 2022 and discuss some key steps to take if you want to start crossing projects off your to-do list!Sad, Neglected Spaces [48:54 - 59:24]Every home has spaces that are not as nice as others. There are different reasons for this, but the bottom line is that neglected spaces drag us down. They hover over our heads and are co